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Los Angeles-based Singer/Songwriter and Multi-Instrumentalist December Fades pays tribute to the Black Lives we've tragically lost with his compelling and powerful single, "Say Their Names." Able to draw in a broad fanbase through his inspirational, cathartic, and universal-friendly sound, December Fades lets his unhindered creativity shine within every piece while coming through with messages for listeners to take away and speculate. With his recent moving single, "Say Their Names," December Fades spills nothing but the truth within his heart-tugging lyricism while exploring the sonic depths of dark Pop music. Not to mention the natural warmth and softness of December Fades' vocals, he offers a highly passionate performance while singing of the pain and trauma that our black community has undeservedly experienced. "Say Their Names" beautifully opens with December Fades' soothing vocals while repeatedly singing the song's title. Overtop of melancholy and saddened piano melodies, the song begins in an incredibly raw, organic, and natural way. Once short electric guitar bursts start to flare, whopping bass-like synth's power through underneath an escalating string section, shaping the song to be a modernly orchestral and cinematic piece. Diving deeper into the song, the track's strong focal point is December Fades' striking lyrical message that pushes through with the sour truths of racism while fighting for justice with compelling lyrics like "8 and 46, no, he did not deserve this...we all see their lies, we stand by your side." What makes this piece all the more moving is hearing the raw and biting grief that December Fades exudes merely within his voice. We highly appreciate such a deep and meaningful piece regarding the ongoing black lives matter movement, as December Fades' single "Say Their Names" reminds us that our fight for justice is long...long overdue. We adore each and every aspect of your meaningful single, "Say Their Names." What pushed you to do more and create a powerful single regarding the ongoing black lives matter movement? I was in shock and disgust after watching the murder of George Floyd. He was killed in plain sight in the middle of the day by the very people that are supposed to “protect and serve.” Watching the witnesses plead for the cops to STOP, yelling “He can’t breathe!” was truly disheartening and disturbing. Each day after, more videos of police brutality or the murder of another black person would appear. I just couldn’t take it anymore and felt called to do something about it. It was a rude awakening that burst my safe little bubble. It was a serious dose of reality that revealed a world riddled with corruption. The only way for me to deal with feelings this heavy is through music; quiet the noise and nonstop turmoil inside by picking up a guitar or playing the piano. To create is to escape. Some of my best songs have come from the most painful moments. Speaking on the broad and dynamic instrumentals/production within "Say Their Names," how did you formulate the sonics to offer a melancholy tone that escalates to be incredibly strong and stimulating? Once I finished the foundation of the song - the melody, lyrics, chord progression, and form - I thought I was going to keep it bare bones. In order to allow the message and lyrics to be heard clearly, I was originally going to keep it pure and simple by only having voice and piano. At first, my mind was set on that idea. Finally, I decided to keep an open mind and allow myself to just explore. It started off with light sprinkles of instrumentation tucked way back in the mix. After implementing some very expressive sounds and ideas, I realized that the production was actually accentuating the emotion and the message, so I ended up with the opposite of what I originally intended. It became a huge production with percussion, marching drums, strings, choirs, effects, and a dramatically dynamic bridge. The production paints a blend of beauty and sadness, hopelessness and hopefulness. It’s infuriating that these tragedies happened, but it’s beautiful to see people come together in masses to support each other; to make a difference, and peacefully protest. To keep this short I’ll only mention a few of the sonic production choices I made. One of the aural elements, the repeating beeping rhythm underlying the hook, was based on Morse code. It’s code for SOS, which ships used for signaling extreme distress. It’s also associated with the phrase “save our souls.” I took a sine wave, muted it on and off to rhythm, added saturation, reverb, and delay to give it the color, depth, and dimension. I had to adjust the rhythm slightly to make it work. It ended up becoming an essential theme. I also utilized a sine wave in the outro to make it more tragic. It represents the flatline you would hear from a heart monitor when someone’s heart stops beating. I also wanted the song to be grave and haunting, so the verbed out delays almost sound like lost souls responding. In the bridge, I wanted to accentuate the fight and the uprising, so I added crescendoing marching style snare drums and bass drum. I used a war drum instead of a normal kick drum throughout. Your lyricism within "Say Their Names" is immensely descriptive and powerful. What was your songwriting process like when writing such an influential and meaningful piece? Did you face any challenges when writing your lyrics? I wanted to tell Breonna’s, George’s, and other victims’ stories. I wanted to give the victims a voice while opening people’s hearts and minds. Reaching people through music can break down some of the walls they have built up. Taking the listener through an emotional, musical journey is much more effective than arguing. This was my opportunity to provide awareness and give them a chance to reconsider the reality. Honestly, lyrics are probably the most challenging part of a song for me. I usually take my time to find the perfect, impactful, guiding words that trigger emotions. The lyrics usually need to steep and brew for long periods of time; however, with “Say Their Names,” I actually had more lyrical ideas than melodic ideas. I felt called to write and the words flowed freely. I explored and refined some things, but many of the original lyrical ideas remain as the foundation of the song. “8 and 46” for example, was one of my very first ideas. It’s a bit cryptic, but I’m referring to the 8 minutes and 46 seconds that Derrick Chauvin kneeled on George’s neck, which is a huge part of Floyd’s story. Another foundational lyric, “say their names”, became the theme, the hook, and the title of the song. I knew I wanted the first verse to be about George Floyd, and the second verse to be about Breonna Taylor. Normally I keep choruses pretty consistent, which is the nature of a chorus, but with this song the chorus is like an extension of the verse lyric, evolving with each story. “Say Their Names” was my way of paying respect to and honoring the victims - telling the story of these stolen souls while calling out the evil, rotten apples that found their way into the police force. In the pre-choruses and bridge, I allude to the root causes; systemic racism, blatant racism, ego, and qualified immunity. Even though this song is basically a memorial, I decided to drop some hope on the bridge. I’m basically saying “we hear you, we see what’s happening, we see the corruption and lies. We’re with you, we fight by your side.” Could you tell us more about your brand and how you use your platform to shine a light on topics and events that need attention? Is this a typical occurrence for you? Honestly, most of my songs have been about love or heartbreak, so releasing a song like this is a new step, but an essential step for me. I have a few more songs in the works that shine the light on different topics in need, and will likely release them in 2021. I want to bring people together with my music. I hope to bring awareness and healing energy to people around the world, spreading empathy, open-mindedness, kindness, and love. Some of the most beautiful things can come from tragedy. What has been keeping you inspired in 2020? Although 2020 has been a crazy shit show, a lot of good things have come from it. For example, most of us have gotten to slow down. We’ve gotten to put on the brakes and reassess. Last year, I was non-stop on the go, and was often so distracted by work, social media, and other BS, that I barely had time for music. 2020 has given me the chance to reflect and re-evaluate. It helped me figure out what’s important- what I want and need, and what matters the most. I’ve been able to pause and appreciate this moment and find gratitude in just being alive and healthy. I finally found the time and courage to finish and release new music! I hadn’t released anything in over 3.5 years!! - Mainly because of fear, perfectionism, excuses, and non-stop distractions. Because of Covid, I was forced to slow down, confront a lot of emotional baggage, and then overcome it! I hope you’ve all had a similar experience. May we all find the light in this time of darkness. 2020 has been bittersweet. This dark time has allowed us to come together and to fight for justice. All this frustration, sadness, anger, and fear has transformed into unity, strength, hope, and courage. Now the world is much more aware of the problems that exist and we are beginning to make changes for the better! Instagram Facebook Website Photo by: Jerry Singleton #BUZZMUSIC

What have you been up to lately? Right now, I'm excited to be wrapping up my latest project. It's full of interesting ideas and big concepts, so I can't wait for my fans to hear it. I've also been challenging myself to branch out and expand my brand. I'm finding ways to become bigger than music. I've recently accepted a gig as a Culture & Events blogger, and I just completed my first influencer campaign! How do you start your day? I find that a great way to start any day is by stretching a bit to get the blood pumping, and of course by watering and caring for my plants. It really sets the tone for a peaceful state of mind. Who is an artist we would be surprised that you listen to? I fall in love with so many kinds of music from so many kinds of artists! One that you may find surprising is Franz Liszt, the classical pianist. As a lyricist and writer, I like to give my brain a break from words. Listening to the Hungarian Rhapsodies, all of them has always been one of my favorite mental journeys. The notes become images in my mind, the melodies tell their own stories! Describe yourself in 3 words? Bright. Kind. Determined. Producer you would most like to work with? Musically, I am still so drawn to Kanye West's work. I would love to watch his process: how he selects sounds and samples, how he blends them to make a record speak. That would be a dream come true for me. instagram.com/anastasia_hera_ Interview conducted by BSquared Management

What have you been up to lately? I have been focusing more on acting and directing. Music-wise I have written and been writing some new songs! I am trying not to book any live gigs until I think it's safer (for other people's sake). Check out Scawwy Howwow Theatre's horror podcast, Untitled (Redacted) I played Coroner in! It's very well done. Current obsession? Fentimans Rose Lemonade. Dead to Me (the show) and The Good Place (I first watched it years ago and ever since I recently finished the last season I've been re-watching the entire series every single day. Today is my 21st time rewatching it.) Music-wise, Mambo No. 5, Carpe Diem by The Foes of Fern, Legs in a Twist, and other unreleased songs from the upcoming album by my dear friend Jake Tavill (although this one's not just a "current" obsession). Hye-Seung Nam's scores, especially Mr. Sunshine (feat. Richard Yongjae O'Neill) and also songs written by her, especially I'm Your Psycho. Any hidden talents to share? I write short stories (only when I'm inspired and I don't get to finish many of them) and I am honestly good at composing sentences with poetic words that are not widely used together. I'm also, no kidding, legit "good" at eating. I've heard so many compliments that I really enjoy whatever I eat that it makes people wanna buy food for me lol I'm also good at ASMR. Oh and I'm pretty good at archery too haha What do you love to do on your days off? I have been spending my free time cleaning my place. I am a restless person and I have to do at least one productive thing every day. Also, I usually have a lot of projects I am working on at once, and often do not have much time to clean up the place and it bothers me and stresses me out. So when I do, I clean my apartment, usually listening to Fiona Apple's Fetch The Bolt Cutters album. Any predictions for one year from now? Hopefully, I will get an O-1 Visa and will be performing and directing actively in New York. instagram.com/willbug_music Interview conducted by: BSquared Management

Hi Violet! Thanks for taking the time to chat with us! Of course! You know, the schedule is pretty free lately. 🤣 What have you been busy working on? Writing, writing, more writing, besting my own score on Mario Kart 8, learning how to make pizza dough. Lol. Really hard-hitting stuff. Are you a texter or a caller? Both. I’m constantly chatting with someone. What is your favorite cuisine? Omgsh. I’m such a foodie. I love all kinds of styles and I love trying new things. This is a hard choice for me... Honestly, though, it’s probably a tie between Japanese, Italian, and Hispanic (Mexican, Cuban, Spanish, Venezuelan, Brazilian, etc.) What is your signature style? In Fashion? I would say I am pretty retro. You can find me always rocking the head bandana and some winged eyeliner. If you could create music in any era, what era would you choose and why? Oof. You'll have great questions...It’s a toss-up between Jazz in the 40s or Disco/Funk in the 70s. Which I guess was the “pop” music of both those eras... So I guess I’d always end up in the pop genre no matter what decade I’m in. Haha! Jazz, Funk, and Disco are just so cool, but wild at the same time. Something about it is so alluring. Maybe it’s the glitz and the glamour of it all or the feeling of just wanting to dance when it comes on. I mean, there’s a reason people like Frank Sinatra and Bootsy are so celebrated. They were trailblazers, business savvy, and very upfront equal rights activists. A lot of the funk and jazz heads did whatever they wanted and were friends with everyone. They didn’t care about social norms, skin color, class, status, or what anyone thought about them. They were the rebels of the time, and that’s probably what draws me to it - the lifestyle. I mean, to be totally honest though, NOW is a great time to be in pop music. Some of the best pop songs of all time have been written in the last 20 years and it just keeps getting better so I love being in this creative environment right now as well. Any favorite IG account you love to follow? Jojo Gomez. She’s one of Demi Lovato’s dancers. Incredible performer and I just love seeing her creativity. I’ve always wanted to be able to dance like her. Do you have any vices? Does cheese count? Haha! Idk, maybe if you take me out sometimes and we have a couple of drinks we can talk about it. ;) facebook.com/violetlavellemusic instagram.com/violetlavellemusic

Chicago Hip-hop artist, TyreeThePrince, taps into his boisterous personality in his latest single, “Say Nothing.” As one to always bring an aggressive approach to his music, plastered with enough energy to serve up a village, he is best known for his artistic versatility with a variety of flows and melodies. TyreeThePrince takes his larger than life vision and applies it with his burning passion for songwriting. As an upcoming artist, he is one to look out for with the unique approach he takes to the tune he creates. “Say Nothing,” paints a picture with the energetic Trap inspired tempo and powerful delivery from TyreeThePrince. This song has you feeling all kinds of ways while turning up the volume to access more of the bass-driven record. Money makes the world go round and TyreeThePrince hits home with this record about flaunting what we’ve worked hard for on a day to day basis. With a charismatic hook like, “I only talk about money, yea, I only talk about money,” it automatically emits late night club scene vibes where we can hear this playing at last call with our arms and drinks up in the air, forgetting about tomorrow. TyreeThePrince executes a clear and present conveyance of his memorable lyrics and carefully crafted rhyme schemes. In the Hip-hop era, we experience today, “Say Nothing,” has all the components of a hit track and we’re here for it. TyreeThePrince continues to bring a whole feast to the table and shows us why he is a promising and talented up and comer. “Say Nothing,” gives off a lot of energy and we can’t help but sing the hook over and over again. Could you please take us into the creative process when writing this song? When creating and making this song, I honestly just heard the beat for the first time and the hook just happened. I listen to a lot of beats throughout the day and write a bunch of hooks. When thinking about this song I tried to make songs that fit the tape I'm working on. How important is it for you to apply real-life experience into the songs you create? I try to write about things that I have done, experienced, and the conditions I've lived in. What was the studio session like when creating, “Say Nothing?" When making this song, I and the producer were just vibing that day. We had been running through songs, I was laying them down one by one. I just put them down bar by bar and we just had fun with it. What does this record mean to you and what would you like listeners to take away from it? To me this record is just the beginning of my push, this song creates big energy and really lets people know that it's the main thing on my mind because I'm really focused on growth. I'm very business-minded and I try to hit every avenue in regards to multiple streams of income. What has been keeping you inspired in 2020 and what can we expect to see next from you? My vision of success and achieving everything that I want no matter what people think of me and my material. Writing has been a passion of mine and due to that no matter what's going on given the pandemic I'm still working on creating new music. What everyone can look forward to me is more new music, some more videos. So make sure to check me out on all platforms, you don't want to miss the wave, cause I'm coming and I'm coming different from what's a popular type of rap music right now. Instagram Facebook #BUZZMUSIC

Veterans of the Los Angeles music scene, LPFM offers listeners a piece of heaven with their latest single, “Underneath,” from their two-track EP, 'Underneath/Love Iz No.3,' The Indie world has been given a new voice with LPFM, a duo consisting of Chris Paul Overall and John Wilson III. Following up on the stellar 5-track EP, 'Voices,' released in March 2020, the first track off of this two-track project takes us on a three-and-a-half-minute sonic voyage that gives any artists' melodic bending a run for their money. The atmospheric and boisterous performance by LPFM shows us why, “Underneath,” is on top. “Underneath,” initiates in such a raw and simplistic way that it moves mountains. For a record that contains the number of components it does, it holds its own as gracefully elegant in its simplistic yet wonderful standing. The heavenly reverberated vocals from LPFM transports you to cloud nine while you zone in on the well-crafted lyrics about not being afraid in life, even when you can’t trust what you don’t know is there. The elements that are introduced as the song advances, allow listeners into the realm of this euphoric creation. Through each sincere presentation, the ambiance that LPFM has a knack for delivering is exuded in an effortless manner between the deep, flowing vocals to the composition in place. “Underneath,” is only a slice of what LPFM has to offer and the longer they stay dominating the scene, the more we realize why they deserve to be here. Congratulations on the release of, “Underneath,” off of your EP, “Underneath/Love Iz No.3.” What influenced your decision to make this two-track EP include, “Underneath?" Chris: Since the release of our debut EP "Voices" back in March 2020, John and I have continued to produce demos and material for upcoming releases. Especially now during the Covid lockdown, we find ourselves having way more time to focus on that. John: The songs Chris and I write to pay homage to the bands that have always inspired us as musicians. We write the type of music we want to hear. Our name LPFM also comes out of that same idea, nodding to the low power FM independent radio stations that still play music not curated by a corporation or algorithm. “Underneath” was written organically as we were reacting to the state of the world & even more specifically where we live. It’s relevant to this time in history and we felt it necessary to release the song immediately (in June 2020) instead of waiting to add it to a group of songs later. What does this record mean to both of you individually and together as a collective? John: The news on TV around March/April 2020 got really hard to watch. The stories kept getting worse and worse every day, as was my anxiety about what was happening. I took it out on the piano at some point and sent the idea to Chris. It became “Underneath.” It wasn’t planned. In contrast to our first release, which was 5 songs we just enjoyed creating as songwriters, this song has a purpose. It exists specifically because of what’s been going on in 2020. I feel the weight of what we’re going through in both the music and the lyrics. I’m really proud of this track. Chris: Everything we were creating during that time seemed to be a very stream of consciousness. More than being a specific meaning or tone, the “Underneath” EP just encompasses all of the emotions we went through during the time we were making it. It’s anxiety-driven and skeptical. I think it was an attempt to offer some hope to ourselves. No matter how bad things get they will always get better at some point. There are so many beautiful components to “Underneath.” Could you please take us into the creative process of the song? Chris: "Underneath" started out as a verse and bridge progression that John sent me in April. That's usually how we work. He writes some roughly produced progressions and then I'll add a few elements or just sing what I hear his foundation asking for and we cut and paste back and forth until we have an agreed roadmap. In this case, I was having one of those days where I was manically processing the information that I was hearing from the world. Are we all gonna die? Is this just temporary? Should I dig a bunker in the backyard and prepare for the apocalypse? You know, the typical questions us sensitive artist types might reel on during a global pandemic. "...I don't trust what I can't see. Though the darkness wants to pull me down...you can't hold me underneath". I have this sense (or perhaps delusion) that there are folks who are generally good and there are those who are generally bad. Whether that's a dirty politician, a corrupt leader, or just plain evil humans these are the people who prey upon anyone they can to assure their own agenda. No one is perfect but not everyone actually premeditates intentional destruction. This song reflects on that corrupt demographic. The bridge, "...Don't be afraid...You'll see someday", is an inner mantra one might chant to cope with the inner demons during times as challenging as these. It's meant to empower people who relate to that experience. The bridge has a different sonic atmosphere than the rest of the song. That was very intentional. Since lyrically that section is very hopeful in nature we felt like it made sense for everything to be very organic there. No synthetic instruments, just a mix of various stringed instruments and drums. There's also a pad of choral hauntings woven "Underneath" sung by Dallas Kruse. It gives that section a soothing angelic quality. How was the writing process different for “Underneath,” versus, "Love Iz No.3?" John: "Love Iz No.3" was a Rhodes and vocal thing Chris showed me. To me, it sounded like another mantra, similar to the bridge of “Underneath.” The 2 songs complement each other. I thought the track he sent me sounded great as it made sense to keep this one Chris and I. A full band production would not have served this song properly. The “No.3” references the 3rd idea I’d tried on the drums. Everything I was coming up with initially felt like a distraction to the message of the song. Then Fiona Apple surprised us all with the brilliant “Fetch The Bolt Cutters” which inspired the layered percussive approach I ended up playing. The title is unique because the song is unique. Chris: Yeah, what he said. Haha, I think the only difference for this tune was that it was a song idea I brought to John rather than the typical way we do things. Honestly, it wasn’t something I thought would make it on a record. Just fooling around. Sometimes music is just fun kids! What has been keeping you inspired in 2020? What can we expect to see next from you? John: As “Underneath/Love Iz No.3” was being mastered (by Gavin Lurssen) & prepped for release, George Floyd’s death & the movement that followed inspired us to write another song called “For Those Who Can’t Breathe.” That track with 2 other songs, “Open” and “Fragile Heart,” became our 3rd EP “Open” which was released in August. It’s not our intent to be a political band. We’re just writing about how we feel and what we’re going through, and hope the authenticity of our songs translates to the listener. We’re constantly writing and recording, although our next release hasn’t been planned yet. Our good friends Justin Burrow, Dallas Kruse, and Nic Rodriguez are the incredible studio players who help us create the sound of LPFM. We’ve known these guys for a long time and they constantly inspire my writing. Chris: I’ve been driven mostly by a gratefulness to have space and time to be creative. It’s also extremely therapeutic to lose yourself in creation. With all we have been through in 2020 music has offered an outlet to deal with it all. The times I have been the most afraid or anxious I have used to bury my head in songs. It gets my mind off of the outside chaos. Instagram Facebook #BUZZMUSIC

New Jersey Singer/Songwriter Paola La Uníca has recently been merging a vast array of genres together in order to form the characterizable sound of herself today. Paola Almonte has focused her efforts on guitar and composing for years, which drove her confidence to delve into the music world as far as she has. Currently, in the works of an EP, Paola La Uníca doesn't stop when it comes to the creation of her music, and her latest track "Easier" proves that she's always on the roll with her musical offerings There's an effortless sensual ambiance that washes over listeners with Paola La Uníca's release, "Easier". The song smoothly glides by with soft and modest tempos, keeping the main vibrations at an ultra-daze-like tone. We're warning listeners that the atmosphere in "Easier" surpasses soothing, and transcends itself into an entire world of ethereal realness. Paola Almonte doesn't hold back when it comes to expression, and "Easier" insurmountably proves that. Honing into personal life experiences and tribulations, Paola La Uníca showcased once again that her wisdom can shine and ultimately provide a raw sense of hypnosis. All in all, "Easier" became more and more effortless to listen to as the track went on, and provided almost a raw sense of tranquillity to respective listeners. What kind of emotive went into "Easier" and how did the song personally resonate for you? It was a peaceful emotive. Being in love and that person uplifting you with stability and certainty in their feelings for you. The feeling of safety and trust that the universe is working in your favor. Was there a certain kind of message you had hoped would get imparted onto listeners with this track? How would you describe the main essence of "Easier"? The main essence of “easier” is letting go of people you love when it is time, but also receiving love with ease when it comes. The point is to not force anything and just be. Be at peace and be in love. Enjoy the love for what it is and be content in it instead of imagining and creating things that aren’t there. As a music artist who draws from her own experiences, which experience would you say most significantly impacted the lyricism for "Easier?" I drew from past relationships I’ve been in and conversations I’ve had with people about what love means to them. Considering the deep and almost sensual tones presented in "Easier", what kind of atmosphere would you say you were aiming for with this track? I was aiming for a relaxing atmosphere. A song to drive to that makes you feel peaceful inside. Something to just chill to with that special someone. What has been keeping you inspired in 2020? I get inspired through current events, my friends, and content from other artists. I have been looking at a lot of photography and graphic design work lately and I find it stirs me inside. Right now I’ve been looking at Briscoe Park’s photography and listening to old Kid Cudi and Tracy Chapman. Instagram Twitter #BUZZMUSIC

Whether it's a job interview or a first date, dealing with the anxieties related to manifesting the best version of yourself can feel like taxing labor. For the Grand Rapids-based quintette, The American Hotel System, it's a crucial way of thinking about what remains unspoken, related to social anxiety, and what needs to be said in order to produce a more hopeful future. Through lush anecdotes of self-improvement, this Michigan band does precisely that with their newest music. On the introductory track off their latest record, 'Postcards,' The American Hotel System ruminates over the romantic and elegist-like introspections associated with feeling like a victim upon realizing your own self-awareness, "no I can't make an excuse, when I'm a victim of truth," before the blues-mirroring electric guitar slides into a salacious solo to drive the subject home. The easy-listening sonics all work in tandem to emphasizing the hooking lines that come next: "the truth is such a funny thing, they say it sets you free, I've used it as a weapon, in selfish irony." Frolicking with the sentimental connotations of the title, 'Always Greener,' which winks at the idea of getting behind your own truth for a better shot at happiness, sounds melancholic, fleshy, and convivial at the same time. Narrated with the plasticity of an elegist behind the microphone, The American Hotel System seems to be hinting that the grass is always greener on the other side when you end up being honest with yourself, to dive deep into your own 'truths,' while the warm texturized sonics of each band member's instrument softly corral your emotions to front and center. Reinvigorated after a year spent formulating folk and blues distilled orchestration in the studio, The American Hotel System calculatingly marshals remedial and poetic stanzas throughout their string garnished extended play. "I wish I could change where my soul has been, I'm running out of the past, as the world's last light spins," they sing, recalling and ruminating over a feeling they desperately desire on "The Feeling." The outcome is a melodious song that dances amid cultural detachments and alarming vulnerabilities, amalgamating into a more soft-spoken and folkier tone than the blistering rock orchestrations of their 2018 and 2019 Extended Plays. In this way, 'Postcards' feels more regulated by the contemporary folk influences of bands like Big Thief and City and Color, utilizing a texturized vocal tone to chaperone profound narratives over folky, blues-mirroring orchestrations endowed with: blithe acoustic guitars, earthy drums, warm bass-lines, infatuating string arrangments, and the occasional harmonica. While the bands' songwriting might not be filled with the same hot-blooded criterion of their previous work, their newest sensory experience projects flashes of melancholy and self-renovation with magnetizing topics surrounding growth, the eminent tomorrow, and real communal synergy. On their past EP's, The American Hotel System tantalized at the emotional spectrum of their acoustics, only giving audiences a taste occasionally, like on 2019's heartfelt 'Home'—and 'Postcards' expands on that concept more on their latest record, with 'Another Road (Home Pt. 2),' which unsurprisingly, fits on this record like a tailor-made glove. It's a highlighting track, saving the best of this band's repertoire for a powerful obi of the most inherent moments of bliss encircling the places we call home. The band confers a less subdued version of the somber, raw acoustic ballad from 2019 and evokes their most frivolous impressions of hope through their folk instrumentation, as the lithe harmonics of their gently plucked apparatuses dissolve back into the fleshy, atmospheric voids from which they came. It's these cohesive and self-reflective detachments that hoist 'Postcards' to a brand-new level: the vulnerability of 'Nothing is New' when the band confesses, "living for more is my prayer, cause nothing is new" or the compact, fervent push of "The Poison," a song about being humble and meek, regardless of cultural interjections, and social ques. 'Postcards' continually invites listeners to dive deeper within themselves, and through the guidance of clinical narratives touching on issues related to the present's personal and cultural strains, the experience behind their latest catalog feels like a well-needed mediative getaway. Learn more about The American Hotel System's latest EP, 'Postcards' here. Can you run us through how you managed to compile the songs you've featured on 'Postcards' after your original plans of releasing an LP were detoured due to the on-going pandemic? Jacob: This year was set up to be our biggest and busiest yet. We had already begun production on our next full-length record and we’re gearing up to release the first single (‘Loyalty’). Michigan began a stay-at-home order in mid-March and we quickly realized our year was going to be turned upside down. By April we had canceled a total of 26 show dates, including a 12 date regional tour. We found ourselves stuck in our homes, totally isolated from one another. I started hosting Zoom calls where I’d send an open invite link to the band so we could chat and have some sense of community. One day, C.T. and I were going through some song ideas and I pulled out a poem written by my friend Caleb. After 10 minutes or so, we had written what became ‘Another Road’. I hung up and recorded my parts, then sent the tracks over for C.T. To record his. Two days later and I received the mix back from our engineer Zach...and this began ‘The Postcard Series’! Each of the four singles that released over the summer was written just 3-5 weeks before they were released. What were some of the most profound emotions you found yourselves diving into during some of the performances you've captured on 'Postcards?' And are there any songs that jump out as incredibly profound in their ability to bring out those sentiments? Jacob: The emotional turmoil of waking up, opening my newsfeed, and being met with seemingly endless chaos and despair left me feeling exhausted and bitter. The temptation towards bitterness and hate was stronger than ever. This is where ‘The Poison’ came out of. I’m really grateful for that track because it’s served as a daily reminder to myself to take my focus off of the brokenness and onto the hopeful. How did you curate the flow of the playback behind 'Postcard'? What were the deciding factors behind the track order? Jacob: I knew I wanted to open the EP with a spoken word piece and end it with ‘Nothing Is New’. My goal with the opening track (‘T.A.H.S (Isolation)’) was to weave the themes of each song together I to one narrative concept. ‘Always Greener’ seemed like a good, upbeat place to land as the first full song leading into the melancholy of ‘The Feeling’ — both representing a longing for what I can’t have. Then we explore the self-destructive coping mechanisms we can turn to when isolated, physical (‘Another Road’), and emotional (‘The Poison’) before finally settling into the peace of living for more than selfish desires and disparity (‘Nothing Is New’). As with any project, my goal is to weave a cohesive narrative that serves to convey a bigger message. If you could give audiences a few words that would act as the prologue for the experience and the message behind 'Postcards," what would you feel the need to say and why? Jacob: These songs are an attempt to navigate the anxieties of the ever-changing landscape of 2020. Further than that, ‘Postcards’ is a musical journey for those who feel isolated and alone — and it is my hope that those who listen and reflect on it will be encouraged to look towards the hope of tomorrow. C.T.: For me, postcards is as much an “I miss you” to live shows and fans as it is a reminder of how resilient music and my love for it is. Everyone’s love for it. To go even further, it represents the resilience of the human race when faced with struggle, heartache, and pain. So for anyone who is going into a listen of ‘Postcards’, remember, you are resilient and we miss the heck out of you. Enjoy. Hailey: The songs on this EP have served as an exploratory tool of contentment, loneliness, curiosity, and opportunity for growth; especially in the time of a global pandemic. I hope that ‘Postcards’ does the same for everyone who listens. These songs are an ode to what we miss and to what is to come. Sam: Postcards, to me, is an attempt to sort out the jumbled mess of emotions we’ve felt this year. Through political turmoil, fear for our health, and several months of being forced apart. The songs hold much meaning to me in that they represent much of what we’ve seen each other go through or have experienced ourselves and it makes us cherish and treasure the moments we’re able to come back together and love each other in person again in a way that couldn’t be shown through text messages, the occasional video chat, or through a letter or postcard. What's been a new Milestone you've set out for yourselves as a band this year? And how have you been inching closer to accomplishing those goals daily? Jacob: While our original goal was to release another full-length record, that goal shifted into this; creating and releasing new music every month. ‘Postcards’ came out of that goal and we still have a few more things to drop for the last two months of the year. Personally, I’m writing every single day — some days it’s just a few lines, others it’s entirely arranged songs. Every new day’s challenges bring another opportunity to respond creatively. Instagram #BUZZMUSIC

Multi-talented, Singer, and Songwriter, Edison, releases his nostalgic and heartfelt new single, “Lay You Down.” This Los Angeles based creative takes his inspiration from classic R&B veterans and seasons them with an old school Hip-hop flavor that is unique to the essence and flair he exudes. Edison was named one of the Top 50 artists living in the Los Angeles area due to his hit song “Real One,” which featured rapper Ziggy and was produced by mastermind, Chris Keys. This is an artist that not only wants to create an impact on entertainment but makes it about more than the music. With his recently released single, “Lay You Down,” this has been Edison’s most successful single to date with the way he captivates us with a profound message. “Lay You Down,” begins with the playing of indulgent keys and small but sullen horns shining. The pan flute is a striking touch adding for a unique choice of instrumentation on a track where the soul in Edison’s vocals remains a centerpiece. Edison’s vocals bring out the nostalgia in us conveying us to the set of an early 2000’s R&B music video shoot where the protagonist is laying it all out in the rain puddles outside his love interest’s home. The soothing elements in this entrancing love ballad draw you into every word Edison performs. The instrumentation gently sits with the lyrics Edison is vocalizing and carries it in such a delicate yet powerful manner. There is a slice of heaven in the way Edison presents this record to us and we can instantly see why it has been his most successful record to date. We’re big fans of the early 2000s and Edison immerses us in these elements with, “Lay You Down.” We’ll be patiently awaiting the next release from this R&B artist. As big fans of this track, why do you think this has been your most successful song to date? I‘m not sure why it became successful. I’m happy that the song is one that people can enjoy and relax and just be able to vibe with. I wanted to add a little mix of new and old school R&B and I hope my fans and new fans are able to see and hear that as well, but overall I’m thankful for the success that the song has created. Was there a certain moment that inspired the lyrics behind, “Lay You Down?" Not really. I’ve always been the type of guy to love and appreciate romantic evenings with dinner, a movie, conversations, drinks, and anything that you can think of that makes a great night worth it. So I guess you can say if there is an inspiration, it comes from the fantasy and belief from how I view a romantic night of my own if I’m with the woman of my dreams. What can listeners expect from the “Lay You Down,” music video? Did you create this creative concept? They can expect imagination. There won’t be anything crazy done with it, the video will be focused on the storytelling of the song and nothing more. I love what we did with the video and shoutout to Warren Carter who was the producer and director of the video. Also, I would like to make a shoutout to Nikki who is the actress that played the love interest in the video and she is a beautiful person inside and out. Definitely a great person I look forward to working with again in the future. I want to thank Warren for buying into the song and the story that it’s telling. He is the mastermind behind the video. He brought me an outline of what he wanted to do, where and when he wanted to film it, and who he wanted to put onto the video. It’s definitely one of my proudest moments as an artist and I’m glad that I was able to make the song come to life on the screen. Could you take us into the studio session of creating this love ballad? After “Real One” was finished being recorded I talked to my producer Chris Keys and I told him how I wanted to show my growth as an artist and not hold myself back so much. I gave him the idea and he got right to work with the track. We recorded it that same day. Believe it or not “Lay You Down” might be the most difficult song I have ever recorded so far because there were times where I struggled hitting certain notes or I was not using the right tone so we had to do so many takes to get it right. We ended up getting it right eventually, but it took a lot of practice, preparing, and rescheduling to make sure we got it right. What message would you like your listeners to take away from “Lay You Down?" I would like them to know that it’s okay to have a simple romantic night. You don’t have to be too creative or do anything fancy to impress that one person you want to go out with. Just have fun and enjoy yourselves and show that person a great time. Get to know each other and let the night naturally take its course and I promise you nothing but good things will happen and if not, something great will. Instagram Facebook #BUZZMUSIC

From a nanotechnologist to a multi-instrumental producer, Andrew Michael Meador has proven that he can accomplish anything he sets his mind to. That's the same classification his newest feature, "DEVIL," comes appended with, along-side some hooves and a pair of horns for some added metaphorical punch. Over a distorted howling of multifarious pads and bolstering synths adjacent to the droning sub-bass, Andrew takes the corpulent portions of his intrusive thoughts and shovels them out on display for audiences to dissect. With a mid-hustling tempo and a back-beat that you'd only find attached to the hottest electro-pop singles from this decade, he swoops in with a top-line that sears into the hearts and minds of anyone who can relate, like a pitchfork burnished through a plethora of scintillating aural effects, and through the great test of time. As you glide along the festooned highway of hooking synth riffs, his lyrics denote the demons he harbors within himself, hiding from everyone he knows in plain sight. "The DEVIL inside of me, you wouldn't believe, what's inside of me," he decries with magnetic resonance, as his music video portrays the Tennesse-based songster in a fractal struggle, fleeing from the beasts and devils trailing inside his swarthy mindset. It's an incandescent display that draws reminiscence to something like a lyric video, but at the same time, behind the engrossing texts, a poetic story is unfolding. Amongst a thick and almost neon-tinged backdrop of smoke and steam, Andrew comes face to face with the mirrored image of himself, looking right back at him with a dismal silhouette of horns and the festering notion of something more sinister about to unfold. By the time you reach the hooking chorus for the last time, it's almost impossible not to feel invested in the anecdotal genius behind Andrew Michael Meador's "DEVIL." If one thing is for sure, its that he can run from the demons chasing him from inside, but he can't run from the attention his latest single is going to bring him—compounding in potency as time goes by, like the timeless classic all his music is destined to become. What was the primary influence behind creating "DEVIL" and the appended visual feature attached? Is this something you felt was essential for you to divulge to audiences? I wrote “Devil” on a surf trip in February 2020. I was camping at a nature preserve in Florida, and one morning I woke up and the song was right there in my head. I made a couple of voice memos on my phone and began creating the musical track when I got home. Authenticity is colossally important to me—so yes, it does feel essential to divulge how I feel in my music. I have a long history of overcoming mental unwellness and I’ve learned over the years how to thrive in the midst of immense sadness and internal darkness. So the song immediately made sense to me when it was in my head. Can you recall any challenges related to addressing the vulnerable topics associated with "DEVIL?" Is this something you always find yourself struggling with within your diversely potent musical catalog? When addressing vulnerable topics, there is always the challenge of “is this corny?” Trite? Using the devil mask in the video—is it too literal? Cheesy? Will I keep people from hearing the message and heart of the song with my production choices? I treat every song like it’s its own person. My catalog is diverse because I don’t consider myself a single-genre artist. I’m focused on writing great music that people can relate to, and I’m looking beyond the singular genre that the song is packaged in. A song I wrote called “Under the Sun” I actually released in multiple versions and genres because I wanted to communicate the SONG, not just a specific recording. What were the main emotions that guided you through your vocal performance on the "DEVIL"? And how do those emotions compare to those you channeled for the music video? It can be very challenging getting “into the mood” for vocal recording. When I recorded “Devil”, I was actually having a great day! But after listening to the track a couple of times, I feel like I was able to sing from that same place in which I had received the song. Despair, fear, uncertainty. I think the video is a little less serious in some of the shots, we were paying homage to some of the greats: like when I turn suddenly with the flashlight to face the camera. But the video is definitely a vehicle for the lyrics. I’m a visual person, and seeing the lyrics written out really helps me understand a song better. I wanted to accomplish that with Devil because I want people to relate and understand that these feelings are way more common than we think or discuss. If you could give your listeners a few words that would act as the prologue to your intended experience behind "DEVIL" and its attached music video, what would you choose to say, and why? I want to create comfort for those who can relate to “Devil”. Life is hard enough; I’d want people to open up about these feelings and share them, get them out in the open, deepen a friendship, be vulnerable. Talk to someone you trust so you’re not carrying these things alone. Ideally, it would spur listeners on towards increased awareness and better mental health for themselves. What has been keeping you inspired in 2020? There is SO MUCH to get bogged down by. I have some incredible friends and I love seeing what they put out. Anyone approaching isolation and quarantine with positivity is encouraging to me. Let’s at least make the best of this time we have. More than that, I’m inspired to share my stories through my music and hope that they connect with others. I want to make the world a better place, especially for those on the fringes of society who are overlooked. That really drives me. Instagram Facebook #BUZZMUSIC